Caroline Snow

Dec

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR NOV 30, 2021

The RRT (Rapid Response Team) Action List compiles action items from the week and upcoming events into one place. If you would like to add anything to the weekly update, please send it to Dee Halzack at dee@solidaritylowell.com.

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Urgent Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has a job. Our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month through January. Solidarity Lowell is specifically committed to his support for the month of January. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

If you are able to contribute, please send donations to Marissa Dupont.

Donations via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Solidarity Lowell Election Committee

Would you like to help compile our Scorecard on the City Councilors who are candidates for Mayor in the next session? If you are interested in helping to go through minutes and recordings of past City Council meetings and record councilor’s stances on issues important to progressives, including diversity/inclusion/equity, affordable housing, environment, and more, please contact lisa@solidaritylowell.com.

Hold Space for the Solidarity Lowell Holiday Party

Saturday January 1, 4pm – 7pm
In person event – 52 Lawrence Drive, Lowell

Solidarity Lowell is planning our annual Holiday Party to be held January 1. Watch for more details.

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

We will not have a general meeting in December. Instead we’re having an in-person holiday party.
Our regular general meetings will resume, via Zoom, on Sunday January 23 at 5:30pm.

Other Events

Coming Together: Building Progressive Political Power

Saturday 12/4 9am – 5pm
Sunday 12/5 10am – 12pm
Registration: Pay what you can afford, $0 to $100 – unlimited, sliding scale. Average to cover our costs: $20. Read the sliding scale guidance page.
Register to attend. https://secure.everyaction.com/fpOavcbB0UOgJDvhsuW6wQ2

Join Rep. Ayanna Pressley and members of Progressive Mass, Mass Alliance, and other Progressive organizations to examine how we can strengthen Progressive influence in our national, state, and local governments by focusing on human rights, dismantling white supremacy, and forming coalitions that include the frequently under-represented BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. For more info, see https://masspeaceaction.org/event/coming-togetherbuilding-progressive-political-power/

h/t Susan Labandibar – News-MAGIC (edited)

Boston Area Sustainability Group (Virtual) Talk: Environmental Subsidies: Helpful, Harmful or Hopeful?

Tuesday, December 7, 6pm – 7:30pm
More info and registration here: https://tinyurl.com/fk5r72t2

Join speakers and subsidy experts Doug Koplow of Earthtrack, and Greg Leroy of Good Jobs First to gain a better understanding of different types of subsidies and how they shape environmental and non environmental behaviors for better or worse. No math or technical skills needed!

h/t Amy Perlmutter- environmental consultant via News-MAGIC

Vigil for Racial Justice

Sunday, December 12, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
In person, Littleton Commons
Group: Greater Littleton Interfaith Council

State-level Actions

Support Immigrant Survivors of Domestic Violence!

Immigrants in Massachusetts who suffer intimate partner violence are twice as likely to be killed by their abusers as are the native born. The Massachusetts Safe Communities Act would end voluntary police and court involvement in deportations, so that all victims feel safe reporting abuse and getting help and protection. Urge your state legislator to support the Safe Communities Act today!

Please let your state rep and senator know you support the Safe Communities Act. https://actionnetwork.org/letters/support-immigrant-survivors-of-domestic-violence/

h/t Jeannine Wood, via News-MAGIC

– – – –

Our State Legislators’ Info

Contact your state representative and state senator
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden@mahouse.gov 617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov 617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen@mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov 617-722-1612

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Solidarity Lowell is a volunteer group of community members of Greater Lowell working toward social justice by defending the human rights, dignity, and equality of all persons against all forms of hate and discrimination.

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

October meeting (Endorsed Candidates Showcase) recording: https://youtu.be/5cGYD0TykS4
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Nov

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR NOVEMBER 9, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Congratulations to ALL Our Endorsed Candidates

We look forward to the new voices and new ideas that the seat-winners (*) will bring to our city government. We look forward to working with you for change in the city.

And we are grateful to and proud of those who were disappointed in the results, but nevertheless ran good campaigns that forced incumbents and opponents to really think about what they were promising to deliver. We are especially grateful to Tooch Van, who was part of the lawsuit that brought historic change to the city.

City Council
*At Large: Vesna Nuon
*District 2: Corey Robinson
*District 4: Wayne Jenness
District 5: Tooch Van
District 6: Justin Ford

School Committee
*At Large: Jackie Doherty
*District 1: Stacey Thompson
District 2: Hilary Clark
District 3: Susie Chhoun

Urgent Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has a new apartment and needs urgent assistance with rent money. If you are able to contribute, please send donations to Marissa Dupont.

Donations via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Save the Date: Solidarity Lowell November General Meeting

Sunday, November 21, 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Topic: A representative of the International Institute of New England in Lowell will speak about the Afghan refugees who will be resettled here.

Other Events

The Future of Hydrogen for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Tuesday, November 9, 9:00am-12:00pm
Hybrid event – In person and online

A discussion of the recently released white paper from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and the AIM Foundation. Following a discussion by the paper’s authors, a panel of state officials, including Lowell’s own Representative Thomas Golden, will react to the study’s findings. The study was funded by the gas companies through an industry group and regards putting hydrogen in the gas lines – a bad idea for many reasons.

For tickets ($50):
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-future-of-hydrogen-for-the-commonwealth-of-massachusetts-hybrid-event-tickets-170162726295

Freedom to Vote – Time to Act Rally

Tuesday, November 9, 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Sponsor: Indivisible Mass Coalition
Lexington, MA

Join local activists in the fight to reform the filibuster and protect voting rights at this standout in Lexington Center by the Minuteman Statue on the Battle Green.

The Filibuster Ban Van will visit the standout! Participants can sign a super-sized letter to President Biden printed on a banner, asking him to join the fight to reform the filibuster and transform our democracy. The Filibuster Ban Van will then continue to Washington, DC where, on November 17, we’ll deliver the giant, signed letter to the White House along with hundreds of other activists.

Bring a sign showing your support of Voting Rights or an end to the Filibuster, if you have one, but don’t worry if you don’t. Join us even if you only have time to stop by and sign the banner.
RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/dfadcoalition/event/426727/

h/t Lisa Baci, News-MAGIC Team

Freedom to Vote – Time to Act Rally

Saturday, Nov 13, 10:30am – 12pm
Haverhill, MA

Extremist politicians have spent the year putting up barriers to voting in one state after another and are now drawing districts to benefit themselves, carving up communities and attempting to drown out the voices of millions of American voters for the next decade.

The American people have responded by coming together to demand Congress act. The House already passed sweeping legislation to protect our freedom to vote and realize the promise of democracy for all.

Now, we’re working together to ensure that the Senate delivers for the American people so all our voices are heard and we can elect people who will deliver for us.

That’s why we’re mobilizing during the Senate’s next recess in November when lawmakers will return home (Nov 8th – Nov 13th) for a Freedom to Vote: Time to Act week of action.

Join us for our Freedom to Vote: The Time is Now event to urge the Senate to act swiftly to pass robust national standards for federal elections, and to use every lever of power and influence to get this done.

https://www.mobilize.us/dfadcoalition/event/426465/

Rally to Support the Common Start Act

Sunday, November 14, 11:30am – 12:30pm
Ladd & Whitney Memorial in front of City Hall

Affordable childcare, early childhood education, and afterschool care. The Common Start coalition has a plan for all of that. We need to help them convince legislators to pass the bill.

A Livable Future: How Can Massachusetts Lead on Climate?

Sunday, Nov 14, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Register for link: http://bit.ly/massclimateaction

Our State House has been slow to pass the sweeping changes we need. To make matters worse, our governor has vetoed critical legislation. When his veto was overridden, he slowed the implementation of the law. That’s why Call2Action, along with over thirty Democratic Town Committees and supporting organizations, invite you to join a virtual forum this November 14th at 7:00pm on “A Livable Future: How Massachusetts Can Lead on Climate?” Space may be limited, so please register soon.

Hear:

A word of welcome from US Senator Ed Markey, our climate champion in Congress, on the current budget battles that will determine our national future
A report from Bill McKibben, the world-famous founder of 350.org, on what he observed at the UN meeting – and what it means for us
An analysis by Cabell Eames, political director for A Better Future Project, on how the governor is slow-walking the new climate law – and what we must do
The Rev. Vernon Walker, director of Communities Responding to Extreme Weather, on how the connections between the climate crisis and the injustices to low income communities and communities of color must be met by a unified response

Safe Communities Act Town Hall

Thursday, November 18, 6:00pm – 7:00pm

18 months into the COVID-19 pandemic and 9 months into a new federal administration, the passage of the Safe Communities Act is more important than ever. Ending police and court involvement in deportations remains an urgent public health and public safety priority in Massachusetts.

Join the Safe Communities Coalition for a virtual town hall discussion to hear from immigrant workers, immigrant survivors of domestic violence, and advocates about why the passage of the Safe Communities Act is essential and what you can do to take action. Interpretation in Spanish and Portuguese will be provided.

RSVP: https://actionnetwork.org/events/safe-communities-act-town-hall

h/t Lisa Baci, News-MAGIC Team

State-Level Actions

Submit Written Testimony in Support of An Act To Apply the Public Records Law to the Legislature

Deadline: 5pm November 12

There is still time to submit written testimony in support of An Act to Apply the Public Records Law to the Legislature (H.3239, S.2048). If you believe that Massachusetts should join the other 46 states that subject their legislatures to public records law, make your voice heard! Submit your testimony by emailing it to jordan.latham [at] mahouse.gov or mary.wasylyk [at] masenate.gov, and don’t forget to check out our sample testimony for inspiration at https://tinyurl.com/5kyuvabd!

h/t Act on Mass

Encourage Same Day Voter Registration

Ask the House Ways & Means Committee to be sure to include same-day voter registration in the bill it will report to the House floor. No Lowell Reps are on the committee, but you could write to the chair, Rep. Aaron Michlewitz (Aaron.M.Michlewitz [at] mahouse.gov).

Sample email
I am writing to you in your capacity as chair of the House Ways and Means Committee to urge that you include same-day voter registration when reporting House Bill H.805 out for a vote in the House. Because of the college population in Massachusetts, too many people move in September. The deadlines for voter registration and registration changes effectively disenfranchise those people with regard to primaries. It is possible to handle the logistics of implementing the change, and important to avoid disenfranchising people as much as possible.

Thank you.

Support Immigrant Survivors of Domestic Violence!

Please let your state rep and senator know you support the Safe Communities Act. https://actionnetwork.org/letters/support-immigrant-survivors-of-domestic-violence/

h/t Jeannine Wood, via News-MAGIC

– – – –

Our State Legislators’ Info

Contact your state representative and state senator
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

October meeting (Endorsed Candidates Showcase) recording:
https://youtu.be/5cGYD0TykS4
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Nov

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR NOV 2, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Urgent Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has a new apartment and needs urgent assistance with rent money. If you are able to contribute, please send donations to Marissa Dupont.

Donations via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Save the Date: Solidarity Lowell November General Meeting

Sunday, November 21, 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Topic: Afghan refugees

Other Events

The MVP 9th Annual MICAH Awards Celebration

Saturday, November 6, 6:00pm-8:00pm
Online

This annual fundraiser event honors local heroes who are active not only in their own organizations, but also in the broader community of the Merrimack Valley and beyond.
This year’s honorees include Solidarity Lowell’s Marissa Dupont.

For tickets: https://givebutter.com/MICAH-2021
A $10 donation gets the Zoom link and a virtual program. A $30 donation also includes a physical copy of the program sent at a later date.

The Future of Hydrogen for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Tuesday, November 9, 9:00am-12:00pm
Hybrid event – In person and online

For tickets ($50):
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-future-of-hydrogen-for-the-commonwealth-of-massachusetts-hybrid-event-tickets-170162726295

State-level Actions

Encourage Same Day Voter Registration

Sample email
I am writing to you in your capacity as chair of the House Ways and Means Committee to urge that you include same-day voter registration when reporting House Bill H.805 out for a vote in the House. Because of the college population in Massachusetts, too many people move in September. The deadlines for voter registration and registration changes effectively disenfranchise those people with regard to primaries. It is possible to handle the logistics of implementing the change and important to avoid disenfranchising people as much as possible.
Thank you.

Support the Common Start Act

Affordable childcare, early childhood education, and afterschool care. The Common Start coalition has a plan for all of that. We need to help them convince legislators to pass the bill.

Rally. Hold the date of November 14 for a rally in Lowell. Time, place, and speaker line-up details forthcoming.

Support Immigrant Survivors of Domestic Violence

Please let your state rep and senator know you support the Safe Communities Act. https://actionnetwork.org/letters/support-immigrant-survivors-of-domestic-violence/

h/t Jeannine Wood, via News-MAGIC

– – – –

Our State Legislators’ Info

Contact your state representative and state senator
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

October meeting (Endorsed Candidates Showcase) recording:
https://youtu.be/5cGYD0TykS4
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Oct

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR OCTOBER 27, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Support Our Slate of Endorsed Candidates

City Council
At Large: Vesna Nuon (https://www.facebook.com/vesnaforlowell)*
District 2: Corey Robinson (https://www.coreyforlowell.com/)****
District 4: Wayne Jenness (https://district4lowell.com)
District 5: Tooch Van (https://www.votetooch.com/home)**
District 6: Justin Ford (https://justinford.nationbuilder.com/)

School Committee
At Large: Jackie Doherty (https://www.facebook.com/electjackiedoherty/)
District 1: Stacey Thompson (https://www.staceyforlowell.com/)***
District 2: Hilary Clark (https://www.clarkforprogress.com/)
District 3: Susie Chhoun (http://www.susieforlowellschools.com/)*****

If you were unable to attend our Showcase, see the link the candidate forums section to a recording.

All of the campaigns can use help with canvassing. Knocking on doors is one of the most effective ways to get out the vote. Get some exercise while helping to elect progressives! Canvassing a little too much exercise? Try standouts, holding a sign and waving to passing motorists for an hour or more. Some campaigns are also doing phonebanking and textbanking. And if you own property that would be great for sign placement, that can help too. Contact the campaigns directly to volunteer.

And of course, there are fundraisers to support. Signs and fliers cost money. See Local Events for more information on those.

If we want to be a force for real change in Lowell, we need to help get more progressives elected and thereby demonstrate that we put our actions behind our endorsements.

*Vesna Nuon campaign volunteer opportunities
Standouts for visibility
Wednesday 10/27 4:30 to 6:30pm Nesmith and Andover Streets,
Chelmsford and Stevens Streets
Thursday 10/28 4:30 to 6:30pm Mammoth Road and Varnum Avenue
Bridge Street and VFW Highway
Friday 10/29 4:30 to 6:30pm Nesmith and Andover Streets,
Fletcher and Broadway Streets

Volunteers also needed for poll locations.

Canvassing door-to-door on Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 10:00. Anyone interested in helping can contact Judith Durant: judithdurant1 [at] comcast.net or 508.667.9230.

****Corey Robinson for District 2
Sign up for phonebanks and signholding
https://signup.com/go/YOCdbaK

**Tooch Van District 5 City Council campaign volunteer opportunities
Phonebanking and postcard writing
For more information go to http://votetooch.com

*** Stacey Thompson’s campaign is looking especially for folks to hold signs, phonebank, or host yard signs.
Email staceyforthestudents@gmail.com

***** Susie Chhoun’s campaign is looking for people to hold signs on Election Day at Butler School, 1140 Gorham St. and the Reilly School, 115 Douglas Rd. Sign up at http://www.susieforlowellschools.com/join-us.html (or just show up!)

Urgent Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has a new apartment and needs urgent assistance with rent money. If you are able to contribute, please send donations to Marissa Dupont.

Donations via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Local Events and Actions

General Election

Vote by Mail
You’ve still got time to apply to vote by mail, but don’t wait too long. The mail is slower now.

Deadline to apply to vote by mail in municipal general election
Wednesday, October 27, 5:00pm

Due to slower mail, after October 20, you would be well advised to drop it off at City Hall directly. The USPS recommends allowing 7 days each way, for application to reach government, for ballot to reach you and for your completed ballot to reach government.

You can also download an application at http://lowellma.gov/votebymail and submit it by email (to elections@lowellma.gov) if you have the capability of completing a PDF file electronically.

If you can’t do it electronically, it is possible to complete a form in person at City Hall.

Elections & Census Office
375 Merrimack Street
Basement, Room 5
Lowell, MA 01852
978-674-4046

If you are voting by mail, once you’ve received your ballot, the U.S. Postal Service recommends allowing up to 7 days for ballot delivery.

Early Voting
Early Voting in person began October 20. And runs through October 29. 8-4 at the Senior Center. Later hours at various locations (each day different). For schedule: https://www.lowellma.gov/1583/Early-Voting

Absentee Ballot
Deadline to apply for in-person absentee ballots is Monday, November 1, 12:00pm

For all the rules, including who qualifies for an absentee ballot, visit:
https://www.lowellma.gov/408/Absentee-Voting

Lowell Votes Election Guides

For information on all candidates, in English, Khmer, or Spanish.
https://www.lowellvotes.org/2021guides/

Help Lowell Votes Get Out the Vote

Lots of our neighbors do not understand the new electoral system yet. They need to be educated and encouraged to vote. Some may even need help registering to vote.

1) Please consider signing up to participate in nonpartisan voter registration tabling and voter education at your site or at events in the City: http://www.tinyurl.com/2021LowellCitywideGOTV

Lowell Votes will provide you with a voter registration and education toolkit and you can choose what materials from here you would either like printed or to donate here.
http://www.tinyurl.com/LV2021MaterialsforPrint
http://www.lowellvotes.org/donate/

2) Upcoming phone banks, canvasses, and other volunteer opportunities: Lowell Votes needs 3-5 more people for every session and always welcome different language capacities.

There will be phonebanking on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights from 5:30-7:30 going forward until the election (except for Indigenous Peoples Day) and Saturday morning canvasses will begin on September 25.

Candidate Forums

Solidarity Lowell Endorsed Candidates Showcase
https://youtu.be/5cGYD0TykS4

City Council
At Large: Vesna Nuon
District 2: Corey Robinson
District 4: Wayne Jenness
District 5: Tooch Van
District 6: Justin Ford

School Committee
At Large: Jackie Doherty
District 1: Stacey Thompson
District 2: Hilary Clark
District 3: Susie Chhoun

City Council Endorsement Survey Results for Showcase
https://tinyurl.com/ypunnxfp

School Committee Survey Results for Showcase
https://tinyurl.com/tda7y68

Organized by LTC, The Lowell Sun, Lowell Votes, and KhmerPostUSA
Search for LTCLowell MA Candidates 2021 on Youtube to see video of all the candidate forums they hosted.

DEI Consortium Candidate Spotlight
Watch any Spotlights you missed on the YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb7O-ece-ZaiKDGVxvWTJ8w

Other Events

Climate Displacement: The Future of Refugee Protection

Tuesday, November 2, 2021, 12:00pm ET
RSVP: https://www.hias.org/events/climate-displacement-future-refugee-protection

HIAS’ Vice President for Policy and Advocacy Naomi Steinberg will be joined by Rabbi Jennie Rosenn of Dayenu: A Jewish Call to Climate Action to discuss the interaction between climate change and forced displacement and the Jewish values that lead us to action. They will be joined by Meshack Omweri and Kennedy Kinyanjui — two Social Workers at HIAS Kenya working directly with refugees from Somalia and other neighboring countries — to explore the connections between climate change and displacement; dive into the case study of Somalia’s drought, resource scarcity, and conflict; and learn how HIAS Kenya is working to holistically support the needs of this community.

Advance registration required.

State-level Actions

Support the Votes Act

Thank your rep for cosponsoring the VOTES Act tell them to ask the Speaker to bring it to a vote. All three Lowell reps are cosponsoring the bill.

Sample email
Subject: H.805, The VOTES Act

Dear Representative ???

Thank you for co-sponsoring H.805, the bill that will make voting reforms that worked so well during the pandemic permanent. Plus it will add a few more things we really need in Massachusetts.

Please ask the Speaker to bring the bill to a vote.

Thank you for all that you do for Lowell and Massachusetts,
[your name]
[your full address, so they can see you are a constituent]

Encourage Same Day Voter Registration

Sample email
I am writing to you in your capacity as chair of the House Ways and Means Committee to urge that you include same-day voter registration when reporting House Bill H.805 out for a vote in the House. Because of the college population in Massachusetts, too many people move in September. The deadlines for voter registration and registration changes effectively disenfranchise those people with regard to primaries. It is possible to handle the logistics of implementing the change and important to avoid disenfranchising people as much as possible.
Thank you.

Support the Common Start Act

Affordable childcare, early childhood education, and afterschool care. The Common Start coalition has a plan for all of that. We need to help them convince legislators to pass the bill.

Rally. Hold the date of November 14 for a rally in Lowell. Time, place, and speaker line-up details forthcoming.
Submit testimony. Deadline is Thursday, October 28, 5:00pm for submitting written testimony, letters of support, OR VIDEO (yes, you can send a video testimony) to James Wu at Common Start (james [at] field-first.com). All submissions will be sent to the Joint Committee on Education. Click on these links for step by step instructions and a template.
- Instructions in Writing Testimony https://tinyurl.com/6bv9ubtr
- Written Testimony Template https://tinyurl.com/7d8hjxfd

– – – –

Our State Legislators’ Info

Contact your state representative and state senator
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

October meeting (Endorsed Candidates Showcase) recording: https://youtu.be/5cGYD0TykS4
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Oct

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR OCTOBER 18, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell Endorsed Candidate Showcase

Sunday, October 24, 5:00pm – 7:00pm (NOTE EARLY START TIME!)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89699168519?pwd=SDZTOFJkc1BmOUE5WTYxYmpnam1jUT09

For our October General Meeting, join us for an interview-style showcase of all Solidarity Lowell’s endorsed candidates for City Council and School Committee. Attendees will be able to submit questions during the event.

Learn why these progressive candidates deserve your vote!

Support Our Slate of Endorsed Candidates

City Council
At Large: Vesna Nuon (https://www.facebook.com/vesnaforlowell) *
District 2: Corey Robinson (https://www.coreyforlowell.com/)
District 4: Wayne Jenness (https://district4lowell.com)
District 5: Tooch Van (https://www.votetooch.com/home) **
District 6: Justin Ford (https://justinford.nationbuilder.com/) ****

School Committee
At Large: Jackie Doherty (https://www.facebook.com/electjackiedoherty/)
District 1: Stacey Thompson (https://www.staceyforlowell.com/) ***
District 2: Hilary Clark (https://www.clarkforprogress.com/)
District 3: Susie Chhoun (http://www.susieforlowellschools.com/)

And, of course, there are fundraisers to support. Signs and fliers cost money. See Local Events (below) for more information on those.

If we want real change in Lowell, we need to help get more progressives elected.

* Vesna Nuon campaign volunteer opportunities
Standouts for visibility
Wednesday 10/20 4:40 to 6:30 – Nesmith and Andover Streets, Chelmsford and Stevens Streets
Friday 10/22 4:40 to 6:30 – Nesmith and Andover Streets, Fletcher and Broadway Streets

Volunteers also needed for poll locations.

Canvassing door-to-door on Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 10:00am. Anyone interested in helping can contact Judith Durant: judithdurant1@comcast.net or 508.667.9230.

** Tooch Van District 5 City Council campaign volunteer opportunities
Monday, October 18
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm: Visibility (Gorham St and Moore St)

Tuesday, October 19
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm: Visibility ( Plain St in front of Target )

Wednesday, October 20
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm: Visibility ( Plain St in front of Target)

Thursday, October 21
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm: Visibility (Mahoneys’ Gas 88-120 Plain St )

Friday, October 22
4:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Visibility ( Butler Middle School 1140 Gorham Street)

Saturday, October 23
10:00 am: Breakfast at Butler Middle School 1140 Gorham Street or Olympic Restaurant 454 Chelmsford Street (to be determined)
11:00 am: Canvassing in Sacred Heart & South Lowell Neighborhood in District 5

Sunday, October 24
10:00 am: Breakfast at Butler Middle School 1140 Gorham Street or Olympic Restaurant 454 Chelmsford Street (to be determined)
11:00 am: Canvassing in Sacred Heart & South Lowell Neighborhood in District 5

Also phonebanking and postcard writing opportunities. For more information go to http://votetooch.com

*** Stacey Thompson campaign volunteer opportunities
The campaign is looking especially for folks to hold signs, phonebank, or host yard signs.
Email staceyforthestudents@gmail.com for details.

Urgent Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has a new apartment and needs urgent assistance with rent money. If you are able to contribute, please send donations to Marissa Dupont.

Donations via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Local Events and Actions

**** Justin Ford City Council District 6 Fundraiser

Wednesday, October 20, 6:00-9:00pm
Mount Pleasant Golf Club, 141 Staples St, Lowell

* Vesna Nuon for City Councilor Final Fundraiser

Thursday October 21 5:30pm-8:00pm
At Panela, 7 Hanover Street, Lowell

** G.O.T.V. and Eggrolls / Tooch for District 5

Friday, October 22, 5:30-7:30pm
Olympic Restaurant, 454 Chelmsford St, Lowell

General Election

Vote by Mail
You’ve still got time to apply to vote by mail, but don’t wait too long. The mail is slower now.

Deadline to apply to vote by mail in municipal general election
Wednesday, October 27, 5:00pm

Due to slower mail after October 20, you would be well advised to drop it off at City Hall directly. The USPS recommends allowing 7 days each way.

You can also download an application at http://lowellma.gov/votebymail and submit it by email (to elections@lowellma.gov) if you have the capability of completing a PDF file electronically.

If you can’t do it electronically, it is possible to complete a form in person at City Hall.

Elections & Census Office
375 Merrimack Street
Basement, Room 5
Lowell, MA 01852
978-674-4046

If you are voting by mail, once you’ve received your ballot, the U.S. Postal Service recommends allowing up to 7 days for ballot delivery.

Early Voting
Early Voting in person begins October 20

Absentee Ballot
Deadline to apply for in-person absentee ballots is Monday, November 1, 12:00pm

For all the rules, including who qualifies for an absentee ballot, visit:
https://www.lowellma.gov/408/Absentee-Voting

Lowell Votes Election Guides

For information on all candidates, in English, Khmer, or Spanish.
https://www.lowellvotes.org/2021guides/

Help Lowell Votes Get Out the Vote

Lots of our neighbors do not understand the new electoral system yet. They need to be educated and encouraged to vote. Some may even need help registering to vote.

1) Please consider signing up to participate in nonpartisan voter registration tabling and voter education at your site or at events in the City: http://www.tinyurl.com/2021LowellCitywideGOTV

2) Upcoming phone banks, canvasses, and other volunteer opportunities: Lowell Votes needs 3-5 more people for every session and always welcome different language capacities:

Candidate Forums

Organized by Solidarity Lowell for Endorsed Candidates
Sunday, October 24, 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Zoom link above

City Council
At Large: Vesna Nuon
District 2: Corey Robinson
District 4: Wayne Jenness
District 5: Tooch Van
District 6: Justin Ford

School Committee
At Large: Jackie Doherty
District 1: Stacey Thompson
District 2: Hilary Clark
District 3: Susie Chhoun

Organized by LTC, The Lowell Sun, Lowell Votes, and KhmerPostUSA
Search for LTCLowell MA Candidates 2021 on Youtube to see video of all the candidate forums they hosted.

DEI Consortium Candidate Spotlight

Watch any Spotlights you missed on the YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb7O-ece-ZaiKDGVxvWTJ8w

State-level Actions

Support MA Indigenous Legislative Agenda: H.3191/S.2027 An Act Establishing an Indigenous Peoples Day

ACTION ALERT:
Go to the Action Network link https://bit.ly/IPDMA2021 and you will find the text of the bill, a template letter that you can personalize and send to legislators, and also information about how to send your own letter if you do not want to use the automated Action Network letter. Please plan to modify the Action Network letter to tell the legislators why this bill is so important to you — personalization helps a lot! Sending this will only take a few minutes of your time.

Please go to the website http://MAIndigenousAgenda.org for information about all 5 indigenous legislative priorities this session, including eliminating Native American mascots, honoring Indigenous People’s Day, celebrating and teaching Native American culture & history, protecting Native American heritage, and supporting the education and futures of Native youth.

Via Daniele Skopek/ Christine Brown Indivisible Acton Area – News-Magic Team (edited)

Support new bill addressing racism through education

Racism has existed for hundreds of years in our society. If we want to fight racism at its fundamental level, we must educate our children early.

MA bills S365 and H584: “An Act relative to anti-racism, equity, and justice in education” were proposed to address the incomplete education in our public school system that perpetuates historical racial inequities which have profoundly harmed the physical and mental health of BIPOC communities and threaten our democracy. To advance the bills, we need a majority of the 160 state representatives and of the 40 state senators in the MA State Legislature to vote yes in this legislative session.

Send written testimony to support the bill: https://tinyurl.com/wsnfss46

Please take a few seconds to simply send a pre-written email to your legislator to ask him/her to support these bills today. You can personalize the email.

Urge your legislator to support the bill: Click here to email your legislator Ethnic studies and Anti-Racism in K-12 Education – Action Network

For a summary of the bills, please read: Summary Fact Sheet of bill

Please follow bill sponsors on Facebook: fb.com/care4aapi. Email: coalition.care.aapi@gmail.com to stay informed on this issue.

H/t Shaw Yang Indivisible Acton – News Magic Team (edited)

Pay Our Interns Campaign

Write your legislators asking them to see that interns are paid for their work. Some states already do that. It is classist not to. How many of you could afford to work for free when you were in college? https://tinyurl.com/kr3jms2y

Fight evictions: Contact your legislators in support of the COVID Housing Equity Bill

Everything you need to take action is at the link. https://tinyurl.com/ywb25nra

– – – –

Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133ylowell.com.

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

September meeting notes https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S0Avt3s5c6eWvXD73O4P0xeWjO5ZAj7GfyapGnPLEMs/edit?usp=sharing

September meeting recording https://youtu.be/akgldM3rz-4

—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Oct

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR OCT 12, 2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR OCT 12, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Support Our Slate of Endorsed Candidates

City Council
At Large: Vesna Nuon (https://www.facebook.com/vesnaforlowell)
District 2: Corey Robinson (https://www.coreyforlowell.com/)
District 4: Wayne Jenness (https://district4lowell.com)
District 5: Tooch Van (https://www.votetooch.com/home)
District 6: Justin Ford (https://justinford.nationbuilder.com/)

School Committee
At Large: Jackie Doherty (https://www.facebook.com/electjackiedoherty/)
District 1: Stacey Thompson (https://www.staceyforlowell.com/)
District 2: Hilary Clark (https://www.clarkforprogress.com/)
District 3: Susie Chhoun (http://www.susieforlowellschools.com/)

And, of course, there are fundraisers to support. Signs and fliers cost money. See Local Events (below) for more information on those.

If we want real change in Lowell, we need to help get more progressives elected.

LAST CHANCE TO REPLY!

Fundraiser for Ecuadorian Asylum Seeker

Sunday, October 17th, 7pm, on Zoom
RSVP for link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lillians-journey-tickets-170508641938

The Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN), Merrimack Valley Project, and Solidarity Lowell present a conversation with Lillian, a refugee from Ecuador. Host Cantor Vera Broekhuysen will lead the conversation with Lillian, who will discuss her journey from Ecuador, through Mexico and into the U.S., and the racism and sexism that she experienced in those countries. We will also hear about her experiences crossing the border and in ICE detention facilities.

From Lillian: “I am from Ecuador. I am Afro-Ecuadorian but unfortunately in my country being Black is still a synonym of slavery, discrimination and disrespect to the Black people. As a Black Afro-Ecuadorian I have suffered a lot of injustice such as discrimination, bullying, and abuse. I finally left my country definitely to Mexico and made my way to the United States to look for peace and protection.”

MVISN has agreed to help Lillian with legal fees pending her asylum case, but we need your help. To contribute, please donate at http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). We encourage you to donate even if you can’t attend.

This week’s standout schedule for Vesna Nuon’s campaign

4:30pm-6:30pm
Signs will be provided

Wednesday, October 13
Nesmith and Andover Streets
Chelmsford and Stevens Streets

Thursday, October 14
Mammoth Road and Varnum Avenue
Bridge Street and VFW Highway

Friday, October 15
Nesmith and Andover Streets
Fletcher and Broadway Streets

Hold the date for the Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, October 24, 5:00pm – 7:00pm (NOTE EARLY START TIME!)
Solidarity Lowell Endorsed Candidate Showcase
Topic: Hear from our endorsed candidates

Urgent Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has a new apartment and needs urgent assistance with rent money. If you are able to contribute, please send donations to Marissa Dupont.

Donations via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Local Events and Actions

Candlelight Vigil Remembering Victims Of Domestic Violence

Thursday, October 14, 6:00pm
Lowell City Hall (rain location: lobby of City Hall)

The Alternative House will host a candlelight vigil to remember and honor lives lost to domestic violence this year. The vigil is being held in partnership with the Lowell Police Department and the City Manager’s Domestic Violence Taskforce.

24/7 domestic abuse survivor hotline: 978-454-1436 or 1-888-291-6228

Stacey For School Committee Fall Fundraiser (District 1)

Wednesday, October 13, 6:30-8:30pm
Mount Pleasant Golf Club, 141 Staples St, Lowell

Corey Robinson City Council District 2 Fundraiser

Thursday, October 14, 6:00-10:00pm
Mill City BBQ & Brew, 11 Kearney Square, Lowell

Vigil for Haitians

Friday, October 15, 3:00pm
2 Mill St, Lawrence (across from the USCIS federal immigration building)

The Interfaith Clergy Alliance (Lawrence) is sponsoring a vigil to protest violence against Haitian immigrants at the southern US border.

Justin Ford City Council District 6 Fundraiser

Wednesday, October 20, 6:00-9:00pm
Mount Pleasant Golf Club, 141 Staples St, Lowell

General Election

If you want to vote by mail or absentee ballot, be sure to allow plenty of time for your application to reach Boston and your ballot to be mailed back to you.

The deadline to register to vote for the general election is October 13 at 8:00pm. If you are not registered to vote where you currently live, you should submit a voter registration form. You will not be automatically registered to vote until you apply for/renew your driver’s license or state ID, or apply for health insurance through MassHealth or the Health Connector. You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at any city or town hall.

Early Voting begins October 20.

Vote by Mail
https://lowellma.gov/1495/Vote-By-Mail
Deadline to apply to vote by mail in municipal general election.
Wednesday, October 13, 8:00pm

Under a state law passed in July 2021, voting by mail will be allowed in all local and state elections through December 15, 2021. All registered voters in Massachusetts will be permitted to vote by mail in any election held prior to December 15, 2021, with no excuse needed.

The U.S. Postal Service recommends allowing up to 7 days for ballot delivery in each direction but you can download an application at http://lowellma.gov/votebymail and submit it by email (to elections@lowellma.gov) if you have the capability of completing a PDF file electronically.

If you can’t do it electronically, it is possible to complete a form in person at City Hall, but it still has to get to Boston in time.

Elections & Census Office
375 Merrimack Street
Basement, Room 5
Lowell, MA 01852
978-674-4046

Absentee ballots
Deadline to apply for in-person absentee ballots
Monday, November 1, 12:00pm

For all the rules, including who qualifies, visit:
https://www.lowellma.gov/408/Absentee-Voting

Help Lowell Votes Get Out the Vote

Lots of our neighbors do not understand the new electoral system yet. They need to be educated and encouraged to vote. Some may even need help registering to vote.

1) Please consider signing up to participate in nonpartisan voter registration tabling and voter education at your site or at events in the City: http://www.tinyurl.com/2021LowellCitywideGOTV

2) Upcoming phone banks, canvasses, and other volunteer opportunities: Lowell Votes needs 3-5 more people for every session and always welcome different language capacities:

Besides making sure you are registered to vote where you currently live, another important item on your list to prepare for the election is to get to know the candidates…

DEI Consortium Candidate Spotlight

Watch any Spotlights you missed on the YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb7O-ece-ZaiKDGVxvWTJ8w

Candidate Forums

Organized by Solidarity Lowell for Endorsed Candidates
Sunday, October 24, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

City Council
At Large: Vesna Nuon
District 2: Corey Robinson
District 4: Wayne Jenness
District 5: Tooch Van
District 6: Justin Ford

School Committee
At Large: Jackie Doherty
District 1: Stacey Thompson
District 2: Hilary Clark
District 3: Susie Chhoun

Organized by LTC, The Lowell Sun, Lowell Votes, and KhmerPostUSA
Thursday, October 14, 6:00 – 7:30 pm

City Council
Districts 5, 6, and 7

Other Events

Redistricting and YOU: How to Effectively Lobby for Fair Maps in MA

Thursday, October 14, 7:00pm-8:00pm
RSVP to get Zoom link at: http://progressivemass.com/redistricting-event-2021

State-Level Actions

Support MA Indigenous Legislative Agenda: H.3191/S.2027 An Act Establishing an Indigenous Peoples Day

Via Daniele Skopek/ Christine Brown Indivisible Acton Area – News-Magic Team (edited)

Support new bill addressing racism through education

Racism has existed for hundreds of years in our society. If we want to fight racism at its fundamental level, we must educate our children early.

Send written testimony to support the bill: https://tinyurl.com/wsnfss46

Please take a few seconds to simply send a pre-written email to your legislator to ask him/her to support these bills today. You can personalize the email.

Urge your legislator to support the bill: Click here to email your legislator Ethnic studies and Anti-Racism in K-12 Education – Action Network

For a summary of the bills, please read: Summary Fact Sheet of bill

Please follow bill sponsors on Facebook: fb.com/care4aapi. Email: coalition.care.aapi@gmail.com to stay informed on this issue.

H/t Shaw Yang Indivisible Acton – News Magic Team (edited)

Pay Our Interns Campaign

https://tinyurl.com/kr3jms2y

Fight evictions: Contact your legislators in support of the COVID Housing Equity Bill

Everything you need to take action is at the link.
https://tinyurl.com/ywb25nra

Support the Right to Counsel Bill

There are three bills pending (H.1537, H.3456, and S.913) that guarantee a statewide right to counsel for those facing eviction. Most landlords have counsel. It is known that when tenants go to court without counsel, they are more likely to lose and be evicted.

It is crucial that the Housing Committee hear your voice in support of Right to Counsel so that they will favorably report out the bills.

Fact sheets and a link to sample testimony can be found here: https://www.massrtc.org/housing-hearing.html

Written testimony due by October 15th at 5:00 pm
https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/4003

Instructions to submit written testimony here:
https://malegislature.gov/assets/documents/how-to-submit-testimony-v1.1.pdf

Written Testimony is Vital.

If you need any help in submitting written testimony, please contact
Lia N. Marino (she/her)
Housing Attorney
Massachusetts Law Reform Institute
617-357-0700

Urge the Housing Committee to issue a favorable report!

– – – –
Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

September meeting notes
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S0Avt3s5c6eWvXD73O4P0xeWjO5ZAj7GfyapGnPLEMs/edit?usp=sharing

September meeting recording
https://youtu.be/akgldM3rz-4
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Sep

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR SEPT 28, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Candidate Forum

Saturday, October 16, 4pm
On Zoom
Hear from our endorsed candidates. Ask questions. More details to follow.

Save the Date – SL General Meeting

Sunday, October 24, 5:30pm – 7pm
Topic: TBD

Urgent Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has a new apartment and needs urgent assistance with rent money. If you are able to contribute, please send donations to Marissa Dupont
Donations via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes

Fundraiser for Ecuadorian Asylum Seeker

Sunday, October 17th, 7pm, on Zoom
RSVP for link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lillians-journey-tickets-170508641938

Local Events and Actions

Together for Abortion Rights

Saturday, October 2, 9:30 AM
Kmart Plaza to Public Safety Facility
252 Main Street, Acton, MA
RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/y47fbm5e

Women’s March – Defend our Reproductive Rights

Saturday, October 2
BOSTON CITY HALL PLAZA OR BOSTON COMMONS, PEABODY, or NORTHAMPTON CITY HALL.
We’re marching in every single state ahead of the Supreme Court reconvening on October 4. Women’s March and more than 90 other organizations are organizing a national call to mobilize and defend our reproductive rights.
We’re going to send the Supreme Court and lawmakers across the country a clear, unified message. The attack on our reproductive rights will not be tolerated. Take the pledge today.
https://tinyurl.com/y7nyyby2
Rise up wherever you are on October 2.
Via Daniele Skopek via Christine Brown Indivisible Acton Area – News-Magic Team (edited)

NH Women’s March

Saturday, October 2, 2pm
Greeley Park, Nashua, NH
RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/rsx98nb3
Stand for our right to autonomy, choice, and freedom from having a bounty placed on our private medical decisions.

Lowell General Election

If you want to vote by mail or absentee ballot, be sure to allow plenty of time for your application to reach Boston and your ballot to be mailed back to you.

Early Voting begins October 20.

Solidarity Lowell’s endorsed candidates so far
District 2: Corey Robinson
District 4: Wayne Jenness

Vote by Mail
https://lowellma.gov/1495/Vote-By-Mail
Deadline to apply to vote by mail in municipal general election: Wednesday, October 13, 8:00pm
Under a state law passed in July 2021, voting by mail will be allowed in all local and state elections through December 15, 2021. All registered voters in Massachusetts will be permitted to vote by mail in any election held prior to December 15, 2021, with no excuse needed.

The U.S. Postal Service recommends allowing up to 7 days for ballot delivery in each direction but you can download an application at lowellma.gov/votebymail and submit it by email (to elections@lowellma.gov) if you have the capability of completing a PDF file electronically.

If you can’t do it electronically, it is possible to complete a form in person at City Hall, but it still has to get to Boston in time.

Elections & Census Office
375 Merrimack Street
Basement, Room 5
Lowell, MA 01852
978-674-4046

Absentee ballots
Deadline to apply for in-person absentee ballots: Monday, November 1, 12:00pm
For all the rules, including who qualifies, visit: https://www.lowellma.gov/408/Absentee-Voting

Help Lowell Votes Get Out the Vote

Lots of our neighbors do not understand the new electoral system yet. They need to be educated and encouraged to vote. Some may even need help registering to vote.

1) Please consider signing up to participate in nonpartisan voter registration tabling and voter education at your site or at events in the City: http://www.tinyurl.com/2021LowellCitywideGOTV

2) Upcoming phone banks, canvasses, and other volunteer opportunities: Lowell Votes needs 3-5 more people for every session and always welcome different language capacities:

3) Please submit questions for the upcoming Candidate Forums hosted by LTC, Lowell Votes, Khmer Post, and Lowell Sun on Sept. 27-Oct. 1: https://tinyurl.com/askthecandidates2021

Check Lowell Votes website and social media for more updates. For more information, contact info@lowellvotes.org

~ Besides making sure you are registered to vote where you currently live, another important item on your list to prepare for the election is to get to know the candidates.

DEI Consortium Candidate Spotlight

Monday, October 4, 7pm
Zoom & LTC Channel 8
Register/Submit Questions Here: https://tinyurl.com/b8xyx5sn

7:00-7:30pm Vesna Nuon, Candidate for City Council At Large
www.vesnaforlowell.com

7:30-8:00pm John Drinkwater, Candidate for City Council At Large
www.drinkwaterforlowell.com

Watch any Spotlights you missed on the YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb7O-ece-ZaiKDGVxvWTJ8w

Candidate Forums

Organized by LTC, The Lowell Sun, Lowell Votes, and KhmerPostUSA
Submit your questions to: https://tinyurl.com/2021CandidateForumQuestions

City Council
Thursday, September 30, 6-7:30: Districts 2, 3, and 4
Thursday, October 7, 6-7:30: Districts 5, 6, and 7

School Committee
10/1, 6-7:30 At-large and D.1
10/1: 7:30-9 D.2,3,4

Other Events

Reimagine an Inclusive Education for Massachusetts: A Community Forum with Senator Jason Lewis

Tuesday, Sept. 28th, 6:30-7:30 PM EST
Please register to receive link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Y1OjLBPxS6SdFb6-LRAelA

Hear from students, educators, legislators, and community leaders advocating for the Bill S365 and H584 sponsored by Senator Jason Lewis, and by Rep Nika Elugardo & Rep Erika Uyterhoeven. It is critical to recognize the history, culture, and contribution of everyone to realize racial equity in our commonwealth.

For more information about the bill and CARE (Coalition for Anti-Racism, Equity, and Justice in Education): https://www.care4eduequity.org/

Posted by Shaw Yang Indivisible Acton Area – News Magic Team (edited)

Becoming an Outdoor Citizen

Wednesday, September 29, 6 – 7:30 pm
Zoom only. Please register at https://simsbury.librarycalendar.com/events/outdoor-citizen-get-out-give-back-get-active-virtual through Simsbury Public Library www.simsburylibrary.info, (860) 658-7663.

A book talk with author and Appalachian Mountain Club President John Judge. Sponsored by Granville Public Library and Simsbury, CT Public Library.

Resilience and Preparedness in a Changing Climate

Thursday, September 30, 6:30 pm
Zoom only. Register here http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/a/agawam/ek.cfm?start=21 through Agawam Public Library, www.agawamlibrary.org, (413) 789-1550

Panel discussion with representatives from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, a forest consultant, and more. Sponsored by Agawam and Granville Public Libraries.

Votes Act Virtual Lobby Day

Wednesday, October 6th – 12:00-1:30 pm
REGISTER HERE https://tinyurl.com/4ehutst3

Now that the Joint Committee on Election Laws has passed the VOTES Act out favorably, we are focused on getting the bill to the floor for a vote. This is the bill that will make permanent some of the popular changes that were made last year to help folks vote safely during COVID, like no-excuse mail-in voting. To help achieve the goal, the Election Modernization Coalition Steering Committee is planning a Lobby Day for Wednesday October 6th @12pm.
Via Carla Cooper – News-MAGIC (edited)

State-level Events and Actions

Strengthen Jail-Based Voting in MA

In Massachusetts, 7-9,000 disproportionately Black and Hispanic voters are effectively disenfranchised every election while incarcerated pre-trial or on misdemeanors. That’s not because they lose the right to vote — these citizens maintain the right to vote. But we have neglected to pass basic requirements on the sheriffs, superintendents, and elections officials to ensure that these voters can exercise their constitutional right.
That’s where your help is needed. MAVoterTable is working with the Democracy Behind Bars Coalition to strengthen the protections for jail-based voting in the State House. The best chance of that happening is through inclusion of provisions in the VOTES Act, which is currently in Senate Ways and Means. Your legislators need to hear from you about jail-based voting being a top priority for election reform this year.
Will you write your legislators today?
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/end-incarceration-behind-the-wall-strengthen-bill

Support MA Indigenous Legislative Agenda: H.3191/S.2027 An Act Establishing an Indigenous Peoples Day

Go to the Action Network link https://bit.ly/IPDMA2021 and you will find the text of the bill, an automated letter that you can send to legislators, and also information about how to send your own letter if you do not want to use the automated Action Network letter. Please plan to modify the Action Network letter to tell the legislators why this bill is so important to you — personalization helps a lot! Sending this will only take a few minutes of your time.
Please go to our website http://MAIndigenousAgenda.org for information about all 5 of legislative priorities this session, including eliminating Native American mascots, honoring Indigenous People’s Day, celebrating and teaching Native American culture & history, protecting Native American heritage, and supporting the education and futures of Native youth.
Via Daniele Skopek/ Christine Brown Indivisible Acton Area – News-Magic Team (edited)

Fight evictions: Contact your legislators in support of the COVID Housing Equity Bill

Everything you need to take action is at the link.
https://tinyurl.com/ywb25nra

Cover Picket Line When Nurses Are Negotiating at St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester

St Vincent’s Nurses Strike
123 Summer St, Worcester
Parking at Strike Office with water and food. Adjacent to Starbucks, 11 E Central St

Peak Demand:
Every day 12 noon when nurses go on errands.
Every Wed 4-6 pm to cover the picket line when nurses are at the negotiation event

MNA Strike Support Page
https://action.massnurses.org/we-stand-with-st-vincents-nurses
Via News-MAGIC

– – – –
Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

National Events and Actions

Bar Insurrectionists from Public Office using the 14th Amendment

John Bonifaz, Esq., President of Free Speech for People is a constitutional scholar. His organization is starting a campaign to use the 14th Amendment to the Constitution (Sec. 3) to bar insurrectionists from holding public office.

This amendment was enacted after the Civil War, and disqualifies anyone who has taken an oath of office to uphold the Constitution, and then engages in insurrection or gives aid or comfort to insurrectionists, from holding any future public office (such as ex-President Donald Trump, among others).

Now it falls to each state’s election officials (in our case, Secretary William Galvin) to implement this Amendment, and that’s where we activists come in. Free Speech for People is a national organization fighting government corruption and advancing democracy, and is launching their 14point3 campaign for citizens to exert pressure on their state election officials to implement the 14th Amendment (Section 3).

Want to join these citizens to hold insurrectionists accountable? Then join Indivisible Mass Coalition and Indivisible Northampton working in partnership with FSFP to organize ways to follow the Constitution and bar insurrectionists from the 2024 ballot. Fill out this form to let us know your interest: https://tinyurl.com/dtxhmy75

Larry Pareles, CD2, Indivisible Mass, News-MAGIC team
via Susan Labandibar – News-MAGIC team

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

View the notes from our September meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S0Avt3s5c6eWvXD73O4P0xeWjO5ZAj7GfyapGnPLEMs/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our September meeting:
https://youtu.be/akgldM3rz-4
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Sep

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR SEPT 7, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, September 26, 5:30pm – 7pm

We’ll be reviewing the results of our survey of candidates involved in the general election whose races did not have preliminary elections and have the opportunity to vote on whether to endorse any for the general election.

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, but until he receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

Donate via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Local Events and Actions

Preliminary Election

The Preliminary will be September 21 and will be for City Council Districts 2, 3, 4, and 7.

The deadline to register to vote for the general election was September 1. If you’re not registered, it’s too late for the preliminary, but you can still register for the November election if you do so by October 13, 8:00pm.

If you are not registered to vote where you currently live, you should submit a voter registration form. You will not be automatically registered to vote until you apply for/renew your driver’s license or state ID, or apply for health insurance through MassHealth or the Health Connector. You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at any city or town hall.

Vote by Mail

https://lowellma.gov/1495/Vote-By-Mail
Deadline to apply to vote by mail for municipal preliminary election: Wednesday, September 15, 5:00pm

Make sure to apply as early as possible. The U.S. Postal Service recommends allowing up to 7 days for ballot delivery in each direction.

To apply to vote by mail, complete a “vote by mail” application and return it by mail or in-person to the Elections & Census Office.
Elections & Census Office
375 Merrimack Street
Basement, Room 5
Lowell, MA 01852

Absentee ballots

Deadline to apply for in-person absentee ballots: Monday, September 20, 12:00pm

For all the rules, including who qualifies, visit:
https://www.lowellma.gov/408/Absentee-Voting

Besides making sure you are registered to vote where you currently live, another important item on your list to prepare for the election is to get to know the candidates…

WCAP Candidate debates

Thursday, September 9, 7 am
District 4 (Downtown) candidates

Coffee with the Candidates

Thursday, September 9, 6-8pm
In person at 74 Middlesex Street
Organized by: UNITAS

In partnership with:
980 AM WCAP
Communidad De Lowell
Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce.

Grill and Chill: CBA Candidate Event Cookout

Saturday, September 11, 11am-3pm
In person at North Common Park

DEI Consortium Candidate Spotlight

Online – Monday, September 13, 7pm
Tooch Van, Candidate for City Council in District 5
Susie Chhoun, Candidate for School Committee in District 3

State-level Events and Actions

Help fight racism in schools

Two bills (S365 and H584) focus on anti-racism and equity in education. They aim to create a commission to study how to incorporate ethnic studies and anti-racism in the K-12 curriculum, with a way to fund it. If all students see themselves represented in the history taught and the focus is not almost entirely on European history, no group is given a feeling of pre-eminence and the contributions all groups make are recognized. The main thread in racism, that a particular group is superior to others, is defanged.

You can help get the bill passed by writing to your State Senator and Representative:
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/ethnic-studies-and-anti-racism-in-k-12-education

Fight evictions: Contact your legislators in support of the COVID Housing Equity Bill

Everything you need to take action is at the link.
https://tinyurl.com/ywb25nra

Support the Common Start Bill

Thank your legislators

All three Lowell representatives have co-sponsored the Common Start bill to provide affordable accessible early education and child care.

Phonebank on behalf of Common Start bill

Tuesday, September 7, 5-8pm
Wednesday, September 8, 5-8pm
Common Start and CSJ are hosting a series of phone banks aimed to identify voters who support the principles behind the Common Start bill – achieving high quality, affordable, and accessible early education and child care for families in Massachusetts.
To volunteer:
https://tinyurl.com/hvx4ukvt

Can’t make the dates this week? Not to worry! These phone banks will take place weekly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5pm – 8pm – make sure to sign up for one of the upcoming weeks! There will be trainings on how to use the dialer, the script, and someone to help troubleshoot or answer any questions that you might hear from voters.

Attend monthly meeting of Common Start Coalition

Monday, Sept. 13 at 6:30pm OR Tuesday, Sept. 14 at 4:00pm.
Virtual monthly chapter meetings where you can get updates on the Common Start bill and discuss how to continue to engage families, the field and even employers. The Chapter meetings are held in the evening and afternoon to accommodate different work schedules. Please mark your calendar for whichever one works best for you: Monday, Sept. 13 at 6:30pm or Tuesday, Sept. 14 at 4:00pm.

Zoom info follows for each.

Topic: Northeast MA Chapter Meeting (Monday night)
Time: Sep 13, 2021 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89822756401
Meeting ID: 898 2275 6401
Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

____________

Topic: Northeast MA Chapter Meeting (Tuesday afternoon)
Time: Sep 14, 2021 04:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82053352146
Meeting ID: 820 5335 2146
Dial by your location
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

Write your Legislators in Support of Same Day Registration

The last day you can register to vote, or change your registration, in Lowell’s upcoming primary election is September 1. Register to vote online here. Because there is a 20-day cut-off before elections.

That, however, raises a key question: Why do we even have such a 20-day cutoff at all?

Our neighbors in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Connecticut all allow eligible voters to register or update their registration at the polls. In total, 20 states and DC have Same Day Registration. Whether their voters vote on Election Day or in Early Voting, they can register or update their registration when they appear to vote in person.

So we know it’s possible. And we know it works: studies have shown that Same Day Registration is one of the best reforms for increasing voter participation.

When the MA House and MA Senate consider a voting reform package this fall to make some of last year’s changes permanent, it’s vital that Same Day Registration be a part of it.

Will you email your state legislators today in support of Same Day Registration? Use this handy form, with an editable message you can personalize, to write to them.
https://tinyurl.com/3dma73ew

Cover Picket Line When Nurses Are Negotiating at St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester

St Vincent’s Nurses Strike
123 Summer St, Worcester
Parking at Strike Office with water and food. Adjacent to Starbucks, 11 E Central St

Peak Demand:
Every day 12 noon when nurses go on errands.
Every Wed 4-6 pm to cover the picket line when nurses are at the negotiation event

MNA Strike Support Page
https://action.massnurses.org/we-stand-with-st-vincents-nurses
Via News-MAGIC

– – – –

Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/32620254841968

View the notes from our August meeting: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18G9Q5mDu3Cctv1Wj88Xerau4lG9b-_jhi9dCvF3-J0s/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our August meeting: https://youtu.be/wueFeELxcV0
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Aug

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR AUGUST 24, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, September 26, 5:30pm – 7pm

We’ll be hearing the results of our survey of candidates involved in the general election whose races did not have preliminary elections and considering possible additional endorsements for the general election.

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Donate via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd

Local Events and Actions

VIRTUAL SCREENING: “Contradictory Place”

Thursday, August 26 7:00-8:30pm
https://tinyurl.com/f8dnxvx8
40 min. documentary followed by discussion led by film collaborators

The film covers “the extraordinary anti-slavery efforts that took place in the mid-19th century in Lowell. Prof. Robert Forrant of the University of Massachusetts Lowell and local historian and community educator Maritza Grooms visited several sites that still exist in downtown Lowell where the abolitionist activity occurred and where freedom seekers operated businesses.

Do you need to register to vote, or update your existing registration?

The deadline to register to vote for the preliminary election is Wednesday, September 1.

If you are not registered to vote where you currently live, you should submit a voter registration form now. You will not be automatically registered to vote until you apply for/renew your driver’s license or state ID, or apply for health insurance through MassHealth or the Health Connector. You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at any city or town hall.

The Preliminary will be September 21 and will be for City Council Districts 2, 3, 4, and 7.

State-level Events and Actions

Help Pass Common Start Childhood Care Bill

Phonebank
Tuesday, August 24, 5-8pm
Wednesday, August 25, 5-8pm

Common Start and CSJ are hosting a series of phone banks aimed to identify voters who support the principles behind the Common Start bill – achieving high quality, affordable, and accessible early education and child care for families in Massachusetts.

To RSVP or for more information please email Diana at diana@coalitionforsocialjustice.org

Testify on the importance of affordable childcare

Is childcare important to you? Did you know there is a bill to establish early childhood and afterschool care? You can help get the bill passed by sharing your story of how important childcare is for you.

Per Jonathan Cohn of Progressive Massachusetts, you can share your story on video as follows:

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS
Videos should be under 2 minutes long and can be shot from your cell phone. Please email videos to james@field-first.com and include the spelling of your full name and the city where you live in the email. This will help us determine the legislator for your district.

Outline for Video Testimony
Hi, I’m [name] from [city or town].
If it applies: I’m a [parent/family member/guardian]. I’m also [an essential worker, a childcare provider, a family care worker, working from home, unemployed, a business owner, an early educator, etc].
Child care is important to me because [fill in the blank].
When you have the opportunity to fund early education and childcare in Massachusetts, please remember my story because there are many others like me. Please invest in access to safe, high-quality, affordable child care.

Or follow this link to email your story to legislators: https://tinyurl.com/6eaejr3h

Fair Share Amendment Pledge Drive

Raise Up Mass is kicking off the Fair Share Amendment campaign early with a pledge card drive! The Fair Share Amendment, which has already secured its spot on next year’s ballot, would create a surtax of 4% on income above $1 million to create a dedicated fund for education and transportation spending. You can sign a digital pledge card at: https://raiseupma.us/solidaritylowell.

Massachusetts Law Reform Institute information for tenants facing eviction

We are urging tenants facing eviction not to move out and to seek rental assistance and legal aid.

For rental assistance, call 2-1-1 or find your local housing agency at http://masshousinginfo.org/.

For legal help and information, call 2-1-1 or visit the COVID Eviction Legal Help Project site at evictionlegalhelp.org/find-legal-help/.

To connect with grassroots organizations in your area, call or text the Homes for All Massachusetts hotline at 617-819-0188 in English or Spanish or visit http://homesforallmass.netlify.app/help/.

Information is available on the website at: https://evictionlegalhelp.org/legal-rights/tenants/

LAC “Meet a Specialist: Criminal Justice”

August 25, 7PM
Register here for Wednesday, August 25, at 7 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/93xdba9z

LWVMA Criminal Justice specialists Nancy Bettinger and Lucy Costa will discuss these bills:

H.2504/S.1578: An Act to provide criminal justice reform protections to all prisoners in segregated confinement. This bill curtails use of solitary confinement.
H.1797: An Act to reduce mass incarceration. This bill establishes the right to a parole hearing after 25 years in custody.
H.1826/S.920: An Act to promote public safety and better outcomes for young adults. This bill structures the juvenile justice system to include people from 18 to 20 years of age.

Posted in News-MAGIC #criminal-justice (edited)

LAC “Meet a Specialist: Elections & Voting”

August 26, 4PM
Register here for Wednesday, August 26, at 7 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/43565r5k

LWVMA Elections and Voting specialists Nancy Brumback and Linda Freedman will discuss these bills

H.805/S.459 An Act fostering voting opportunities, trust, equity, and security (VOTES Act). Comprehensive voting reform bill.
H.769/S.475 An Act supporting parents running for public office. Allow candidates to use campaign funds for child care.
H.3547/S.2261 An Act to establish free access to ride to elections in Massachusetts (FARE Act). Make public transit free on Election Day.

Posted in News-MAGIC #democracy-massachusetts (edited)

– – – –

Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

View the notes from our August meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/18G9Q5mDu3Cctv1Wj88Xerau4lG9b-_jhi9dCvF3-J0s/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our August meeting:
https://youtu.be/wueFeELxcV0
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Aug

2021

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR AUGUST 10, 2021

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, August 22, 5:30pm – 7pm
Save the date!

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Local Events and Actions

Climate Action

FRIDAY Aug. 13 – Bank of America’s Unlucky Day
11:00 to 12:30pm
Join 350MA at the Lowell Bank of America Banking Center
724 Chelmsford St.
Lowell (next to Lowes)

Big banks are still funding big pipelines – like Line 3, a major pipeline expansion to carry tar sands oil. In addition to trampling on Indigenous peoples’ treaty rights, Line 3’s oil is equivalent to about 50 coal power plants, or 38 million vehicles on our roads/ year.

Native groups and activists from across the country are protesting right now in Minnesota. On Friday, Aug. 13 there are local protests across the country. We can help here in Lowell by telling Bank of America to stop funding Line 3.

Please RSVP at the following link, so we know how many signs to bring. Bring your own if you wish!
https://actionnetwork.org/events/stop-the-money-pipeline-9/

State-level Events and Actions

LAC “Meet a Specialist: Women’s Issues”

August 11, 12PM
Register here https://tinyurl.com/3ruk7a2f

LWVMA Women’s Issues specialists Jan Soma and Susan Loffredo will discuss these bills:

H.2020/S.1196 An Act relative to transparency in the workplace—bill addresses pay equity by gender and race
H.2399/S.1470 An Act to require public universities to provide medication abortion
H.1196/S.673 An Act ensuring access to full spectrum pregnancy care—bill would require health insurance coverage for all pregnancy-related care

Posted in News-MAGIC #womens-rights (edited)

Change the Democratic Party Platform

Info from posts from Jeanne Krieger, Progressive Democrats of Massachusetts
Larry Pareles, Indivisible Massachusetts

As you know, the MA Legislature does NOT currently operate in a democratic and transparent manner. The concentration of power in the hands of leadership produces a closed, hierarchical organization that disempowers rank-and-file Members and the public. But this August we have an organizing opportunity available only once every four years: we can change the official platform of the Massachusetts Democratic Party.

Progressive Democrats of MA (PDM) and others are proposing adding a plank to the Democratic Party platform calling for reform of the Legislature. Testimony advocating for this plank can be presented in writing or at hearings being held between Aug. 2 and 14. You can find proposed language, draft testimony, and a link to the Democratic Party site for registering to participate in a hearing and for submitting written testimony on the Progressive Democracts website at https://www.progressivedemsofmass.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/PDM_Dem_Platform_Change_Flyer_v3.pdf

The goal is to get the good governance reforms at the center of The People’s House campaign explicitly included in the Party platform. This would be great leverage in the battle for State House reform – if the MA Democratic Party explicitly supports transparency measures, it becomes much harder for the Democrats in the State House to oppose it.

We encourage you to submit testimony to the platform process. You may also want to advocate for keeping the last 2 bullets in the 2017 platform’s Ethics and Transparency section that address the operation of the Legislature, pages 7-8, https://massdems.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2017-Platform-Massachusetts-Democratic-Party.pdf

All registered Democrats may testify. If you’re not registered as a Democrat, but would like to be, you can register or revise your registration at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr/ .

Never testified before, or even attended a Mass Dems meeting? No worries! Here is a handy Platform Testimony Toolkit https://tinyurl.com/yzuacf4f. This has everything you need to make your voice heard in this process, including the official recommended platform “planks” and a sample script you can use to testify orally.

If you do testify, in writing or at a virtual hearing, please let Progressive Democrats know so they can track the number of supporters for use in advocacy later in the process. Please email them at info@progressivedemsofmass.org email to let them know that you testified.

You can submit testimony in two ways:

Attend a virtual Platform Hearing and testify orally. All hearings are during the first two weeks of August. Check out the hearing dates and times below. Lowell is Congressional District 3.
Submit written testimony (i.e. a PDF of this document https://tinyurl.com/3558wfbk) through this form https://tinyurl.com/nj33wt33. Note: the deadline to submit written testimony is August 14th. Even if you can’t attend any of the hearings, please take a minute to submit written testimony.

This effort is all about volume. If dozens of people show up at these hearings asking for the exact same planks, it will make a splash that they can’t ignore.

Registered MA Democrats may offer testimony on the 2021 MDP Platform.

Fair Share Amendment Pledge Drive

Email Transportation Committee to vote out favorably the Work and Family Mobillity Act

This bill would make it easier for our immigrant neighbors without status to get drivers’ licenses.
In June, the committee heard over 50 speakers speak in favor of the bill, which has earned the support of over 100 elected officials, over 150 labor, faith, and community groups, the head of the MA AFL-CIO, the mayor of Boston, as well as the unanimous support of MA Major Cities’ Chiefs of Police Association. This legislation would not only right a wrong but would also bring in nearly $2 million to the state from various registration and licensing fees and has the potential to lower healthcare costs for millions of Massachusetts residents. The question isn’t why should we pass this bill, the question is why haven’t we passed it already!

Please join the Merrimack Valley Project in emailing members of the Transportation Committee to ask that they advance this bill for a floor vote as soon as possible. The time is now for immigrant justice!

1. Click on the link below.
2. Fill out your name and address, etc.
3. Hit send. [Your email goes to 14 committee members at once!]

Remember, staffers generally are the ones who keep track of the YESES and NOS for a particular piece of legislation. The letter text doesn’t have to be original; there just need to be LOTS OF EMAILS in support.

I wrote. It took all of 20 seconds!!

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/email-the-joint-transportation-committee?clear_id=true

COVID-19 Housing Equity bill

Hearing Thursday, August 12, 1:00pm
https://mailchi.mp/margolis/avert-evictions-in-this-moment-of-crisis?e=ee7c9c9fd6

Send and email or call your legislator: https://www.homesforallmass.org/act/

Massachusetts Law Reform Institute information for tenants facing eviction

We are urging tenants facing eviction not to move out and to seek rental assistance and legal aid.

For rental assistance, call 2-1-1 or find your local housing agency at masshousinginfo.org/.
For legal help and information, call 2-1-1 or visit the COVID Eviction Legal Help Project site at evictionlegalhelp.org/find-legal-help/.
To connect with grassroots organizations in your area, call or text the Homes for All Massachusetts hotline at 617-819-0188 in English or Spanish or visit homesforallmass.netlify.app/help/.

Information is available on the website at: https://evictionlegalhelp.org/legal-rights/tenants/

Help Pass the Anti-Bullying Dignity at Work Act

Massachusetts bill numbers: S1185/H3843

Here are the actions you can take in order of effectiveness based on how much effort the action requires and how much the effort can’t be ignored or is disruptive. We want to ask state legislators to both co-sponsor the bill AND to ask the committee chair to move the bill forward (Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development)

Meet with your own state legislators in a group in-person or over Zoom to share your story and insights.
Meet with your own state legislators individually.
Call your state legislators. Simply ask them to sign onto the bill using the bill numbers above.
Email your state legislators a custom email. Share your story.
Email your state legislators using a handy customizable form: https://tinyurl.com/55exjzha
Join a team meeting on Zoom this month:
Monday, August 16, 7pmET
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89217626874?pwd=Q0h2VzJEV0ZFWXB4d0REdW5jck13QT0
Dial-in only: 646 876 9923
Meeting ID: 892 1762 6874
Passcode: 6721241

– – – –

Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: https://solidaritylowell.com/events/

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: https://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687
View the notes from our June meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LzPJupD5TZmWn3saGi2iwkxIEVPbTwZP_NVAnqewkyI/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our June meeting:
https://youtu.be/Qx3YWeCtBNw
—-

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute